فَقَرَّبَهُۥٓ إِلَيْهِمْ قَالَ أَلَا تَأْكُلُونَ 27
Translations
And placed it near them; he said, "Will you not eat?"
Transliteration
Faqarrabahu ilayhim qala ala ta'kulun
Tafsir (Explanation)
In this ayah, Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) brings the roasted calf closer to his guests and invites them to eat, demonstrating the Islamic virtue of generous hospitality. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this act reflects Ibrahim's eagerness to honor his guests despite their being angels in human form, whom he did not yet recognize. The phrase 'Ala ta'kulun' (Will you not eat?) expresses both an invitation and a gentle encouragement, showing the host's care for his guests' comfort and satisfaction.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the narrative of Ibrahim's hospitality toward the three angels (Jibril, Mikail, and Israfil) sent to inform him of the birth of Ishaq and to announce the destruction of the people of Lot. The surah emphasizes divine signs and how believers should respond to Allah's messengers, with Ibrahim's welcoming behavior exemplifying the proper conduct toward guests.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should honor his guest' (Sahih Bukhari 5186). This hadith reinforces the principle demonstrated by Ibrahim in this ayah.
Themes
Key Lesson
True hospitality involves not merely providing for guests but actively ensuring their comfort and wellbeing through warm invitation and sincere care. Muslims should emulate Ibrahim's noble character by treating guests with generosity and respect, recognizing that serving others with excellence is a form of worship to Allah.